Berlin-based Nova Media today introduced a new unlocked 3G USB stick modem, which can be used with most 2G or 3G networks around the world. Dubbed as the iCON 461, this USB stick modem features an integrated GPS chip and a MicroSD card slot (up to 32GB), enabling it to double as a portable storage. The iCON 461 comes with Launch2Net Premium for OS X, as well as a connection manager for Windows (uCan Connect), allowing the device to be used with both platforms. Launch2Net Premium includes an SMS message manager, a GPS control panel and the ability to act as a personal hotspot. The software features connection settings for most mobile network providers worldwide. The device works with the 850/900/1900/2100 MHz frequencies, and supports HSPA (up to 7.2Mb per second downloading, 5.76Mb per second uploading), as well as 2G EDGE and GPRS connections (850/900/1800/1900 MHz) up to 220kb per second downloads and up to 120kb uploading. The Nova Media iCON 461 retails for approximately $256 including taxes and is available now from the company’s website. The Windows-only version is priced at $213. [Electronista]
Verizon will launch the new Verizon 4G LTE Modem USB551L tomorrow. Created by Novatel, the USB551L modem is claimed to be the smallest LTE USB modem in the market so far. This wireless modem provides download speeds from 5 Mbps to 12 Mbps with upload speeds between 2 Mbps to 5 Mbps. It is compatible with the Microsoft Windows XP 32-bit, Vista 32/64-bit (SP2), Windows 7 32/64-bit, or Mac 10.4 or higher. Verizon will launch the USB551L for $99 with a $50 mail back rebate voucher. The price includes a 24-month contract on a 4G Mobile Broadband plan, which start from $50 a month for 5GB. [Geeky Gadgets]
Verizon Wireless and Pantech have joined together to launch the Pantech UML290 4G USB modem via Verizon Wireless Communications Stores and online at www.verizonwireless.com. The Pantech UML290 connects to Verizon Wireless’ 4G LTE network, the fastest and largest 4G LTE network in America, providing speeds 10 times faster than the wireless leader’s current 3G network. The ultra-fast 4G LTE download speeds enable high-speed access to company networks, e-mail servers and the Internet while on-the-go. The modem supports 4G download speeds of up to 12Mbps and upload speeds of up to 5Mbps. The Verizon Pantech UML290 4G LTE modem is priced at $99.99 after a $50 mail-in rebate with a new two-year customer agreement on a 4G Mobile Broadband Plan. [Press Release]
CLEAR has finally launched a new modem for use with its WiMAX service. Targeted at home or small-office users, the CLEAR Modem with WiFi features an integrated WiFi b/g/n radio for sharing the 4G connection with multiple users, the Beceem BCS5250 WiMAX chipset, an internal (omnidirectional) 5dB average gain antenna, an Ethernet port for hooking up a wired computer and a WAN port for using the router with a cable/DSL modem. The CLEAR Modem with WiFi is now available for $120 outright or $7 per month leased. It is available with month-to-month or two-year agreements, with service plans starting at $35/month (plus tax). CLEAR Voice can be added for $15/month (plus tax). [CLEAR]
Sprint today released the U1901 WiMAX USB modem, which supports the Sprint 4G network. The dongle is a small, simplistic device that works with Windows 7, Vista, XP and OS X (10.5 and 10.6), and when you’re in a 4G zone it can provide throughput of up to 10x faster than Sprint 3G. This WiMAX modem is perfect for companies wanting to deliver high-bandwidth solutions to workers on-the-go or for remote offices looking to provide basic DSL-like speeds to workers in the metro area. The Sprint U1901 WiMAX USB modem can be purchased now for $49.99 on a 2-year data contract. [Press Release]
Huawei has reently introduced its latest mobile hotspot, the E583c, which is available in a silver and black color scheme. The device has a 1-inch color OLED display that shows status information. The Huawei E583 Mobile Hotspot supports a 3.5G HSPA connection with up to five devices over Wi-Fi and a sixth via a direct USB connection. It is compatible with Microsoft Windows, Mac and Linux platforms. Additional features include a microSD card slot (up to 32GB). The Huawei E583c will be available in Hong Kong later this month for HK$1,380 (US$177). [Huawei]
Canada’s Rogers Wireless has decided to recall the Novatel Wireless MiFi 2372 Rocket mobile hotspot device due to the faulty battery. Novatel will send Rogers MiFi owners a pre-addressed and pre-paid envelope, so they can send in their device to have it replaced. Owners should receive the device back within 7 to 10 business days. [BoyGenius]
The Sierra Wireless AirCard 890 will be available on May 5th, 2010 for AT&T users. The wireless device is designed to support both PC Card and ExpressCard slots. The AirCard 890 is compatible with HSPA 7.2 technology, offering built-in GPS functionality so that you can use the company’s TeleNav Track LITE or Xora GPS Locator services. The Sierra Wireless AirCard 890 will be available for $49.99 after mail-in rebate with a two-year DataConnect contract of at least $35 a month (pay $149.99 and after mail-in rebate receive $100 AT&T Promotion Card. Two-year agreement and DataConnect plan required). [Slashphone]
C-motech has debuted its new 3G WiMAX USB modem during Mobile World Congress 2010. Known as the CMR-250, the modem supports both 10/100 Ethernet LAN port and WAN port. No info on pricing so far. We will keep you posted. Read more
AT&T has started selling the Sierra Wireless USBConnect Lightning modem that supports the carrier’s faster 7.2Mbps HSPA network. AT&T sells the USBConnect Lightning for $100 with a minimum $35 monthly data plan, although they will return $100 in the form of a debit card rebate which means the modem is free. The $35 plan provides 200MB a month but coexists alongside the existing $60, 5GB service. [Engadget]
